As people search for new social media platforms in the wake of changes at Twitter, visual conversation app Spill has come onto the scene providing a safe space for Black, brown and LGBTQ+. Earlier this month, Spill became the top social networking app in the App Store, led by co-founder and CEO Alphonzo “Phonz” Terrell.
Terrell worked previously as Twitter’s head of social and editorial, and co-founder Devaris Brown worked as the company’s former project manager. They started the new app as they were leaving Twitter.
According to an article in AfroTech, the founders are working to ensure that Spill has the technology to detect signs of harm or abuse that negatively impact communities of color.
Madison user Kyle Carr talked with Blueprint365 talked about his experience so far.
“So far what I’ve gathered is this is the new space for people that would frequently be a part of Black Twitter or who want to get more of the Black Twitter vibe,” Carr said.
Over 150,000 people have joined the new invite-only app seeking fresh and new alternatives to social media. A TechCrunch story mentioned that Spill’s app was created with $2.75 million in pre-seed funding led by MaC Venture Capital, Kapor Center and Sunset Ventures.
Users or “Spillionaires” are able to express themselves by adding 90 characters of text to images, videos or GIFs. People can also quote, share or comment on each post.
“I think so far how it’s different from Twitter is that it feels as though it’s more of a safe space, for those that are Black or LGBTQ,” Carr said. “I feel like it’s more of a safe space, just because from what I’ve seen, there hasn’t been any hostility. It’s kind of more of a welcoming space.”
Early users are discussing news and current events, entertainment, personal updates and Spill itself.
Spill provided a video on How to SPILL 101 for those who are interested in learning more about the app. Interested users can join the waitlist to become part of this safe social media community.
